ProWater

The recirculation of industrial side products in wastewater treatment systems and processes has the potential to increase resource efficiency, reduce waste disposal impacts, lower gas emissions, decrease water pollution, and promote a circular economy. Despite its potential, various challenges stand in the way of its realization. These include limited data on processing needs and the efficiency of secondary sourced materials stemming from representative scale tests. In addition, there is a lack of communication between side product producers and potential users limiting the exchange of information on product availability and utilization needs. ProWater aims to overcome these challenges and help unlock the full potential of industrial side product recirculation in Nordic regions. Led by a consortium of diverse and experienced partners, the project builds strong cross-border cooperations through research and innovation activities jointly implemented by representatives of stakeholder groups from higher education institutes, business and public sectors. Through an ambitious research plan and extensive stakeholder interactions, the project aims to deliver the knowledge, expertise and technologies needed to overcome the obstacles limiting the recirculation and use of industrial side products in the wastewater treatment sector. Key focus areas include gathering data on industrial activities and side product availability and properties, developing and optimizing material processing, conducting extensive testing of by-products in wastewater treatment applications, synthesizing project outcomes, and disseminating findings to stakeholders and the wider public. Through collaborative efforts, the project will ultimately contribute to strengthening the region's circular economy as well as environmental conservation.